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The Series 28 exam—the Introducing Broker-Dealer Financial and Operations Principal Qualification Examination (FI)—assesses the competency of an entry-level financial and operations principal (FINOP) candidate to perform his or her job as a FINOP in an introducing broker-dealer that does not carry customer accounts or hold customer funds or securities.

The exam measures the degree to which each candidate possesses the knowledge and understanding of the financial responsibilities, rules and recordkeeping requirements of introducing broker-dealers.

The Series 28 consists of 95 scored questions. Candidates have two hours to complete the exam. The passing score is 69 percent.

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Content Outline

The Series 28 - Content Outline provides a comprehensive guide to the range of subjects covered on the exam, as well as the depth of knowledge required. It includes sample questions to acquaint candidates with the types of multiple-choice questions on the exam.

Key Questions

1. What is the difference between the Series 27 and Series 28?

The Financial and Operations Principal Examination (Series 27) and the Introducing Broker/Dealer Financial and Operations Principal Examination (Series 28) are required by FINRA for the individual who prepares and maintains the books and records of the member as required under securities industry rules and regulations.

Broker/dealers that have a minimum net capital requirement of $250,000 and municipal securities brokers that have a minimum net capital requirement of $150,000 under SEC Rule 15c3-1, must register as Series 27s.

The Series 28 on the other hand is an abbreviated version of the Series 27. All other broker/dealers may use Series 28.

Using Reference Material

The test administrator will provide whiteboard/dry erase marker and basic electronic calculators to the candidates, which must be returned to the test center administrator at the end of the testing session. Some test questions involve calculations. Only the provided calculators may be used during the examination.

The examination may contain questions that require the use of exhibits (e.g., charts, graphs, tables). If so, the questions will indicate when to refer to an exhibit.

Candidates are not permitted to bring any reference materials to testing sessions. Severe penalties are imposed on candidates who cheat or attempt to cheat on FINRA administered examinations.